Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Coolant Temperature Sensor/Switch (For Computer): Service and Repair
2010 Chevrolet Cobalt L4-2.2LSECTION Service and Repair
Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Replacement
Removal Procedure
Caution: Use care when handling the coolant sensor. Damage to the coolant sensor will affect the operation of the fuel control system.
1. Drain the cooling system. Refer to Cooling System Draining and Filling (Static Fill LE5, L61) (Cooling System Draining and Filling (Static Fill))Cooling System Draining and Filling (Static Fill LNF) (Cooling System Draining and Filling (Static Fill))Cooling System Draining and Filling (GE 47716 Fill) (Cooling System Draining and Filling (GE 47716 Fill)).
2. If equipped with regular production option (RPO) MN5, disconnect the engine harness electrical connector (3) from the engine coolant temperature (ECT) sensor.
3. If equipped with RPO M86, disconnect the engine harness electrical connector (3) from the ECT sensor.
4. Carefully remove the ECT sensor.
Installation Procedure
Caution: Use care when handling the coolant sensor. Damage to the coolant sensor will affect the operation of the fuel control system.
1. If you are reinstalling the original sensor, or if you are installing a NEW sensor without a sealer, coat the threads with sealant. Refer to Adhesives, Fluids, Lubricants, and Sealers (Adhesives, Fluids, Lubricants, and Sealers).
Caution: Refer to Component Fastener Tightening Caution (Component Fastener Tightening Caution).
2. Install the ECT sensor and tighten to 20 Nm (15 lb ft).
3. If equipped with RPO M86, connect the engine harness electrical connector (3) to the ECT sensor.
4. If equipped with RPO MN5, connect the engine harness electrical connector (3) to the ECT sensor.
5. Fill the cooling system. Refer to Cooling System Draining and Filling (Static Fill LE5, L61) (Cooling System Draining and Filling (Static Fill))Cooling System Draining and Filling (Static Fill LNF) (Cooling System Draining and Filling (Static Fill))Cooling System Draining and Filling (GE 47716 Fill) (Cooling System Draining and Filling (GE 47716 Fill)).
RENDER: 1.0x
NO RELATED
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.